Daytripper: Casa Rap in Batangas

A couple of months ago, my friends and I rented a van and drove down San Jose, Batangas to have lunch at Casa Rap. Owned by Sister Emma Alday, Casa Rap is a quaint little restaurant that serves homegrown greens, traditional Filipino food and the best Suman sa Lihiya this side of the country (or so, fans say). Before going there, I wasn’t really expecting much. I was just happy to be in the company of my friends with whom I haven’t been for a while. In the end, Casa Rap was a pleasant surprise. Those who plan to go to Batangas should definitely make a stopover.

TO GO THERE: From Manila, take the Star Tollway to Batangas. Turn left at the Tambo exit, drive straight ahead, till you see Casa Rap on your right. The exact address is Km 90, Banay-Banay, National Highway, San Jose, Batangas. Phone (63) (43) 726 2873; (63) (0) 916 212 6685. Call for reservations.